Claus

/klɔːz/ noun

Definition

A given name, sometimes associated with Santa Claus; also a German surname meaning 'limping' or 'lame' in its origins.

Etymology

A Germanic name derived from Latin 'Claudius,' meaning 'limping' or 'lame.' The name became famous through the Dutch folk figure 'Sinterklaas,' which evolved into the English 'Santa Claus.'

Kelly Says

The name 'Claus' traces back to the Dutch 'Sinterklaas' (Saint Nicholas), which English speakers couldn't pronounce, so they shortened it to 'Santa Claus'—meaning that the world's most recognizable Christmas figure has a name born from a mispronunciation!

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